Ex-international, Temile inaugurates football academy
Ex-international, Clement Temile, on Saturday, inaugurated a football academy promoted by Clement Temile Football Foundation to develop football at the grassroots.
The inauguration of the academy, which has 40 pupils in the Under 13 and Under 18 categories) took place at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
Temile, a former player of Bendel Insurance, Benin, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the academy was crucial to mentor upcoming players early to help nurture their talents and help them plan for life after football.
“Football made me who I am today and I return all glory to God for the grace to serve my father’s land.
“I’m always saddened whenever I see some of my contemporaries living in penury, at my academy it won’t be just about football, life after football is crucial.
“We’re in talks with some countries in Europe. We want to give these young talents the opportunity to live their dreams. I’m equally delighted that a lot of people are supporting this initiative,” he said.
He explained that the foundation’s objectives were the provision of educational opportunities for indigent students, rehabilitation and provision of assistance to injured, sick ex-players as well as support to widows and families of late footballers.
“Now I want to give back to the country by raising future stars, by creating opportunities for them to showcase their God-given talents,” he said.
The UEFA A licensed coach further said he decided to inaugurate the academy at the Lagos National Stadium because of its importance and the memories it held for Super Eagles players and Nigerian Sports.
“We hope to expose players to international training standards, mentor them to become good role models, educate them on how to manage resources, manage post-retirement life and provide support to people in dire need,” the former Bendel Insurance player said.
He said the Temile Football Foundation had established strong contacts in countries like Georgia, South Africa, Israel and Botswana towards implementing its mandate.
NAN reports that Temile, who at a time managed the English Kentish Town side, and played at Step Five of the English Non-League football pyramid, is the father of Israeli international, Toto Tamuz.
Belmond Benson, the Registrar of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), who represented the Director General, Prof. Olawale Moronkola, applauded the dedication of Temile.
(NAN)